Hazing can cause serious harm and even be fatal; those responsible must be held accountable. At Kline & Specter, one of the nation's most respected personal injury law firms, our attorneys have a strong record of winning high-stakes cases involving catastrophic injury and wrongful death.
With very substantial success for victims of hazing, we're well equipped to handle hazing injury claims. If you or a loved one has been affected, legal action can make a difference.
What Is Hazing?
Hazing refers to any activity expected of someone joining or participating in a group that causes humiliation, degradation, abuse, or risk of harm – regardless of the person's willingness to participate.
Hazing is common in fraternities, sororities, sports teams, and other organizations. It can involve physical tasks, psychological stress, or dangerous stunts and often escalates under peer pressure and secrecy, leading to serious injuries or trauma.
Types of Hazing Incidents
Hazing incidents can range from seemingly harmless pranks to dangerous and abusive acts. Common types include:
- Physical hazing, such as forced exercise, beatings, or exposure to extreme temperatures.
- Psychological hazing, including threats, intimidation, or verbal abuse.
- Substance-related hazing, like forced alcohol or drug consumption.
- Other forms involve sleep deprivation, public humiliation, or coerced illegal activity.
Regardless of severity, all hazing creates an environment of fear and can result in lasting physical and emotional damage.
Physical, Emotional, and Psychological Impact
Hazing can cause devastating physical, emotional, and psychological harm, especially in severe cases involving violence, forced intoxication, or extreme endurance tests. Victims may suffer catastrophic injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal organ failure
- Death
Beyond physical trauma, many endure lasting emotional scars, including severe anxiety, depression, PTSD, and social withdrawal. These experiences can disrupt education, relationships, and long-term mental health.
Psychological manipulation and humiliation often leave victims feeling isolated and powerless. For many, the consequences are life-altering, requiring ongoing medical care, therapy, and legal support.
Legal Rights of Hazing Victims
Hazing victims can take multiple approaches to seeking accountability for the injuries they experienced.
Criminal vs. Civil Charges in Hazing Cases
Hazing can result in both criminal and civil charges:
- Criminal charges are pursued by the state and may result in fines or jail time for perpetrators. They aim to punish offenders.
- Civil cases allow victims to seek compensation for medical costs, pain and suffering, and other damages. They focus on holding individuals and institutions responsible for the harm they cause.
Why Choose Kline & Specter?
Kline & Specter has earned national recognition for its work on high-profile hazing cases, including representing the family of Timothy Piazza – a Penn State student who died after being forced to drink excessive amounts of alcohol during a fraternity initiation. The case led to a confidential settlement and 17 safety reforms aimed at improving Greek life nationwide. Founding partner Tom Kline played a key role in advocating for change while pursuing justice for the Piazza family. Piazza's parents were pivotal advocates in pushing the U.S. Senate to pass the first federal anti-hazing law. The Stop Campus Hazing Act passed the Senate and was signed into law by President Joe Biden in December 2024.
The firm has decades of experience representing students and families in serious injury and wrongful death cases involving hazing, sexual assault, athletic injury, and abuse. Kline & Specter has taken on powerful institutions, including fraternities, colleges, and even the NCAA, to hold them accountable for failing to protect students.
For victims and families seeking legal support in hazing-related cases, the firm offers both a deep understanding of the legal landscape and a proven record of results.
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Seek Support for Catastrophic Hazing Injuries
If you or someone you care about has suffered due to a hazing incident, it's important to explore your legal options. Speaking with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and determine the best path forward.
Kline & Specter has the resources and experience to handle complex injury cases nationwide. Call 215-772-1000 or submit our contact form to speak with a member of our team.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm works with local attorneys in each state as applicable.
